http://www.smh.com.au/news/World/Sex-scenes-in-EUTube-clip-stir-row/2007/07/04/1183351270336.html

The European Commission launched its own channel on YouTube last week saying it wanted to spread messages about topics such as climate change and human rights.

But the video clip scoring the most hits by a large margin features nudity, dim lighting and some heavy breathing.

EU officials said the 44-second clip of sex scenes showcases the strong emotions featured in European films, but the sexual content has raised concerns among some European Union MPs.

Eighteen couples, both homosexual and heterosexual, are shown having sex in bedrooms, kitchens and restaurant bathrooms. As the groans build to a climatic finish, the phrase "Let's come together" flashes on the screen.

The commission's foray onto the popular video-sharing website, he said, "was like watching an elderly relative trying to be cool: very embarrassing."

But Commission spokesman Martin Selmayr said the shots in the clip - drawn from award-winning films such as Amelie and Bad Education - highlighted Europe's tradition of rich cinema.

The 46 videos posted so far are on topics such as road safety, integration of immigrants and reform of the common market for sugar. There are both English and German channels, and French is expected to be up and running in the next few weeks.